Arabic version: ارتفاع أسعار الغاز في الولايات المتحدة بعد الهجمات الأمريكية الإسرائيلية على إيران
Gas prices in the United States have soared due to the US-Israel war on Iran. Crude oil prices increased from about $67 per barrel before the conflict began on February 28 to nearly $97 on March 10, with temporary spikes above $100. This surge in energy costs is expected to place additional burdens on consumers already grappling with high living expenses. According to Al Jazeera, the average price of gas in the US has risen by 51 cents per gallon over the past week.
Consumers are expressing concern about the rising prices. Alma Newell, a resident of Goleta, California, shared her worries about the impact of increased gas prices on her already strained budget due to unemployment from a shoulder injury. She voiced her frustration, stating that the prices have a big impact because she is not working right now and that the war feels unnecessary, exacerbating her financial difficulties.
The political ramifications of rising energy prices may also affect the administration of President Donald Trump, particularly with midterm elections approaching. Analysts predict that gasoline prices could reach between $3.50 to $4 per gallon in the coming week, alongside a projected rise in diesel prices. The situation could generate negative press for the government, intensifying calls for a swift resolution to the conflict.
The war has caused significant disruptions in global oil supply, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for approximately 20% of the world’s oil. The closure of this strait has hampered transport and production, leading to price increases in other sectors, such as fertilizers, essential for agriculture. Countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh are already feeling the economic strain, implementing austerity measures and fuel restrictions.
Efforts are underway at the international level to address the rising energy costs, with discussions among G7 nations about potential measures to stabilize supplies, including the release of strategic reserves. However, the timeline and effectiveness of these measures remain uncertain, particularly if the conflict persists. Initial polling indicates that public support for the war is waning, with a Quinnipiac University poll finding that 53 percent of voters oppose Trump’s military action in Iran, which could pose political challenges for the Trump administration if voters link the war to escalating prices.
